Moving from VP @ Debt Advisory into Origination Director @ Debt Fund - Interview Tips

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and tips for your interview for an origination director role at a debt fund:

Skillset Gaps for Advisors in Origination Roles:

1. Credit Agreement Negotiation:
   • Advisors may lack direct experience in negotiating credit agreements, which is crucial for origination roles.
2. Direct Management Exposure:
   • Experience managing relationships and exposure at the middle market level can be limited for advisors.
3. Detailed Modelling/Diligence:
   • While advisors may have robust diligence and modelling processes, they might not align perfectly with the specific requirements of some debt funds.

Advantages of an Advisory Background:

1. Product Knowledge:
   • Your familiarity with the product type, sector, and deal quantum is a significant advantage.
2. Stamina and Intuition:
   • Advisory roles require stamina and strong intuition, which are valuable in origination.
3. Negotiation Skills:
   • Years of experience in advisory roles develop strong negotiation skills, essential for origination.
4. Managerial Skills:
   • Core skills such as managerial, organizational, and communication skills are highly transferable.

Suggested Questions to Ask:

1. Team Dynamics:
   • "Can you describe the team structure and how the origination team collaborates with other departments?"
2. Success Metrics:
   • "What are the key performance indicators for an origination director in your firm?"
3. Deal Sourcing:
   • "What strategies have been most effective for deal sourcing in your experience?"
4. Skill Development:
   • "What opportunities are there for further skill development and training within the role?"

Additional Tips:

• Highlight your ability to quickly understand and adapt to new models and sectors.
• Emphasize your experience in managing complex deals and your strong negotiation skills.
• Showcase your ability to build and maintain relationships, which is crucial for sourcing deals.

Good luck with your interview!

Sources: Q&A: Consulting v. Banking, the age old question. By Former MBB and Bulge Bracket Banker., Seeking advice - Decade of experience in niche sector and laid off, Consulting Exit Opps for Introverts, Is there any part of the financial industry that is growing?, Q&A: I grew up in Consulting and reinvented my brand 3 times